Internal Barriers and Enabling Factors in the Integration of E-Learning into Executive Master Programs -- An Exploratory Study

Abstract

This paper describes the results of an analysis of six Swiss executive master programs in order to determine the conditions that serve as barriers or enablers to the implementation of e-learning. The result of the analysis showed that these were: the presence of e-learning in the Higher Education Institution’s strategy, an organizational culture that allows for innovation and entrepreneurship, the full commitment of the HEI’s leadership for e-learning, and strong e-learning and project leadership. Other factors were: comprehensive knowledge of e-learning, the involvement of stakeholders, availability of resources (finance, time and staff) as well as the use of rewards, incentives and coaching to motivate and support faculty to adapt their didactical approach.